I know many will think the below is sacrilege; but then that's your opinion and so be it. This morning, when I went to look at my email I had 5, yes, 5 chain letter emails regarding Jesus and if I don't forward them on I am basically denying Jesus. So, here's my take on these emails.
One, forwarding these emails is spamming. Just because these people know me and I voluntarily gave them my email address, do not for any minute think that this is not spam because it is.
Two, forwarding these emails will not now nor never make me a better Christian. Let's be honest here. Forwarding these emails will not make a person read the Word daily, study or follow it. Forwarding them will not make a person stop talking about another in hate or jealousy.
Three, not forwarding these emails is not denying Jesus. I am denying these emails on the basis of the above not on denying Jesus. I think that the ending of these emails is totally ridiculous. Quoting part of a scripture and twisting it to fit the reason why you should forward spam is crazy. You know the ending I am referring to, I know you do. Or the second favorite ending, 98% will have read this email but only 2% will forward it on. This is a slight reference to only a few will go through the road less traveled. Geez, and they say Catholics have a guilt trip religion...LOL.
So, if you forward these spam "Jesus" emails to me, rest assure that I will not forward them. But be aware that I will continue to read and study the Word daily. That I will strive to be a better Christian with my mind, heart and soul but not by my emails.
Monday, August 06, 2007
Sunday, July 08, 2007
Is This All There Is?
My family is full of members who are over 85 years old. In addition to this, my family is full of twins, mostly paternal - boy/girl rather than same sex. One pair of twins who are identical is a set of twin women who are 98 years old. One of them is healthy like an ox. She has no high blood pressure, no cholesterol problems, absolutely nothing wrong with her. Unfortunately, the other one had Alheimer's disease and was living in a nursing home. My great aunt with Alzheimer's died on Saturday. When I found out, I was both sad and happy. Happy that she is now with her Lord but sad about our "special" time.
What I remember most of my great aunt was that she was extremely religious. She was a devout Catholic who went to church daily and would only read the Bible. When I was 13 years old, my parents and I moved to New York City. During my visits back home to Puerto Rico, I would go to church with my aunt. That's all I really remember about her. The next time I see my aunt again will be 17 years later and by then she has Alzheimer's. She would periodically quote the Bible and she was always praying. But she remembers the little me and the grown me is a stranger. Every Saturday, I would go to visit her by taking a train and 2 buses to see her. See, my family would go to visit occasionally and although, my mom was trusted with her estate, she herself would not go every week. So every week this "stranger" would go to visit her by 9 a.m. and read the Bible to her in Spanish. Although, she died never really knowing who I was, it was our time together and nobody needed to know. I never told a soul until now that on Saturdays, she was my previous engagement. I would never break it. Sometimes, I would get there at 11 instead of 9 but I went faithfully every week without fail. So, it came as a surprise when I arrived on my usual time and found my parents there. My aunt had died. Of course, I had to explain why I was there with this huge bible but this was the only bible I had that was in Spanish. What happened next shook me to the core. My aunt, I learned, will be cremated something I know my aunt would never had wanted being the faithful Catholic woman she was even until the very end. My aunt never married and therefore, never had children. As they were packing her things, everything fit in one medium sized paper bag. On the ride home, as my parents chatted about what event they were going to that night, I started to think. Is this what life is all about? As I held my aunt's belongings I wanted to cry out. She was no longer a memory to anyone but me.
I am also a single person with no kids, is this what my end is going to be like for me?
What I remember most of my great aunt was that she was extremely religious. She was a devout Catholic who went to church daily and would only read the Bible. When I was 13 years old, my parents and I moved to New York City. During my visits back home to Puerto Rico, I would go to church with my aunt. That's all I really remember about her. The next time I see my aunt again will be 17 years later and by then she has Alzheimer's. She would periodically quote the Bible and she was always praying. But she remembers the little me and the grown me is a stranger. Every Saturday, I would go to visit her by taking a train and 2 buses to see her. See, my family would go to visit occasionally and although, my mom was trusted with her estate, she herself would not go every week. So every week this "stranger" would go to visit her by 9 a.m. and read the Bible to her in Spanish. Although, she died never really knowing who I was, it was our time together and nobody needed to know. I never told a soul until now that on Saturdays, she was my previous engagement. I would never break it. Sometimes, I would get there at 11 instead of 9 but I went faithfully every week without fail. So, it came as a surprise when I arrived on my usual time and found my parents there. My aunt had died. Of course, I had to explain why I was there with this huge bible but this was the only bible I had that was in Spanish. What happened next shook me to the core. My aunt, I learned, will be cremated something I know my aunt would never had wanted being the faithful Catholic woman she was even until the very end. My aunt never married and therefore, never had children. As they were packing her things, everything fit in one medium sized paper bag. On the ride home, as my parents chatted about what event they were going to that night, I started to think. Is this what life is all about? As I held my aunt's belongings I wanted to cry out. She was no longer a memory to anyone but me.
I am also a single person with no kids, is this what my end is going to be like for me?
Thursday, June 14, 2007
Perspective
This entire week I have been sick. Sick enough that my appetite had completely disappeared. Now, I know I complain about losing weight but not eating is not the way I want to lose it. During this time, if I was not trying to get some work done or sleeping I had time to think. I realized I am tired of being alone.
I started reminiscing about my marriage. Yes, my marriage had problems but one thing I know, my hubby and I were friends. You know the type, we fought but we could not be separated for long. And long for us that was approximately 15 minutes tops! We geniunely like being around each other. He was my best friend and I miss him so much.
During my sickness I realized that I missed that closeness of knowing that someone really cares about you. Now, yes, my parents are still alive but with their active social life, there are times when unfortunately they forget about me. I spent two days not eating and throwing up. No one knew. My friends called and left messages but there was no one here physically who cared. I must admit I am no picnic in the park but the fact that I have no one really saddens me. It dawned on me yesterday that the one person who really cared, really loved me died a long time ago. I am alone.
I started reminiscing about my marriage. Yes, my marriage had problems but one thing I know, my hubby and I were friends. You know the type, we fought but we could not be separated for long. And long for us that was approximately 15 minutes tops! We geniunely like being around each other. He was my best friend and I miss him so much.
During my sickness I realized that I missed that closeness of knowing that someone really cares about you. Now, yes, my parents are still alive but with their active social life, there are times when unfortunately they forget about me. I spent two days not eating and throwing up. No one knew. My friends called and left messages but there was no one here physically who cared. I must admit I am no picnic in the park but the fact that I have no one really saddens me. It dawned on me yesterday that the one person who really cared, really loved me died a long time ago. I am alone.
Tuesday, May 22, 2007
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Censorship?
Ok, so this whole week we have spoken about Imus, his comments regarding the Rutgers Women's Basketball Team, his firing from CBS, his simulcast being cancelled by MSNBC,racism, rappers, etc. So now the liberal in me is weighing in again.
One of the reasons why I was in the fence regarding the whole issue was because although I felt that Imus should be fired for his actions, I also felt "Well, what about the First Amendment?" During this time, my company's yearly mandatory Code of Conduct course was due. I am glad that I had put it off until then. What I realized as I went through the course is that although we are all protected by the First Amendment, we are also striving for a world of diversity. If I utter a racist and/or sexist word or comment in my workplace, anyone can take me up to Human Resources and make charges against me. It does not have to be directed to them or even have anything to do with them. All that needs to happen is that they overhear it; that's all. My company has proven this in the past too. I personally know 3 people who have been fired based on racist comments that were considered inappropriate to the company's diversity policy. And let's face it, we have all made a racist comment about one another. Not one person cannot say they haven't.
So, "Was Imus' First Amendment Rights violated?" No. As an employee of a large corporation, Imus knew that his company had a diversity clause. And large corporations clearly state what actions can be taken should you violate their diversity clause. It may include suspension or possible termination. So as an employee of CBS Radio, his actions was dealt with a dismissal. Now does this mean this is the reason he was fired? Of course not. Let's face it, the reason why Imus was fired was because the big advertisers were pulling out and demanding his termination.
I have heard a lot of people talk this week about First Amendment Rights and how we are becoming a society of censorship. Everyone agrees that Imus was wrong. What we may not agree with is whether he should have been suspended versus fired. But to confuse his firing with censorship is like comparing apples with oranges. It's ridiculous, so please censor your stupid opinions while in my presence.
Rachel Brice's Tribute
This tribute video of Rachel Brice was created by one of her fans. Enjoy Rachel's belly dancing and "Snake Charmer" by Bassnectar & Kraddy. After seeing her dance you know why people say she is one of the best belly dancers in the world.
Enjoy!
BlogTalkRadio
For those who have not had the opportunity to come across this gem of a site, please check out blogtalkradio.com. Just like blogs and vlogs (video blogs), Blog Talk Radio reflects views, ideals and grassroots news. If you are like many Americans, mainstream news just does not cut it any more. You also have the ability to interact with the host immediately when the show is on the air. Each site has a phone number you can call and voice your views or just say how great you think the show is. If you are unable to catch the broadcast live, no problem. The host's site not only has an archive of the shows that you can listen to right there and then but you also have the opportunity, with a click of a button, have the podcast come into your iTunes, MyYahoo, bloglines, etc.
Here are some broadcasts worthy of mention. They are in alphabetical order and not in order of preference. The shows are reflecting Eastern Standard Time (EST). Please go to the host site to confirm time slots.
Host: Sepialove
On: Saturdays, 3:00PM
Host: Delicate Queen
On: Sundays, 6:00PM
Host: DryerBuzz
On: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 6:30PM
Host: MSStringattitude
On: unknown
Host: YAHDAH
On: Wednesdays, 7:30PM
Please go and check out these hosts. They speak about important issues that reflect our community today. And to see other shows of interest to you, visit www.blogtalkradio.com and click on the Program Guide.
Have fun!
Friday, April 13, 2007
Should Have Consulted My Magic 8 Ball
Well, as many of you know, Imus was fired from CBS Radio and his simulcast in MSNBC has been cancelled. Now I have to admit, as of my last posting I never ever thought CBS Radio would have fired him. Imus in the Morning garnish 25% of the revenue for WFAN-AM. For those who are not New Yorkers, WFAN-AM is an all sports station and Imus was about the only show which was not sports oriented in that station. Of course, as the day passed and advertisers continued not only to pull out of Imus' show but from the station rotation until Imus was fired, I, like Imus knew his end was drawing near.
Now, the question is do I feel this is justice? Yes, I do. These are my thoughts on the matter. 1) Imus waited 48 hours, 2 WHOLE days, to say that his statement was inappropriate. 2) Imus should have immediately on his own accord asked for time off to reflect on what he said. 3) He should never had gone to Al Sharpton's show first but asked to speak to the women of Rutgers first. 4) Imus should have stopped defending his stance and accepted, without the multiple denials and excuses, that he was wrong. All of these things are what in my mind cause the firing of Imus just. Al Roker's show just nailed it for me. Spike Lee and Whoopi Goldberg were 2 of his guests. Spike Lee was fired up and for course Whoopi who has condone and even explain racist acts in the past was what did it for me. Well, Ok, it was really Spike Lee and Al Roker that changed my mind. Whoopi is not credible in my book.
But I must admit that I was surprised when I heard that CBS Radio fired Imus. So from now on, I am going to ask my Magic 8 Ball first. When I posed the question to my Magic 8 Ball "Will Imus get fired from CBS Radio?" The answer was "Without A Doubt"
Monday, April 09, 2007
Imus on Al Sharpton's Show
Hmmm....Do I think Imus is a racist? I am not sure for I don't know Imus and have never cared for his show. But was his comment a racist one? For sure, no doubt about it.What Imus does not and will not understand is that our youth is constantly bombarded with negative messages. They are constantly told by the "White" aka mainstream media that they are not worthy. This image of unworthiness, at times, are confirmed by some teachers, the police, society at large and sometimes, unfortunately, by their own family. The Rutgers Women Basketball Team had achieved a brief moment of acceptance, worthiness. For Imus to go and degrade these women was uncalled for and he should be held accountable.
I listened today to Al Sharpton's show. During the show, a caller told Imus he should be fired. Imus was peddling back and forth but finally used two key words which just sunk him even further, "You People". Now I am guilty of using the same words, "You People" and I pretty much mean it in the same manner which Imus was using it at the time. But I was told and it was brought home today that saying "You People" to African Americans is insulting. Something, I assure you I don't want to do. The caller and Al immediately repeated the insult. My question is how can we stop this type of racism from creeping out not only from the mouths of so-called celebrities but from their thoughts as well? I am disgusted as well that these nobodies then get on television or radio to offer their quick apologies. These apologies I feel is to ensure that the African American community does not picket their pristine offices and cause discomfort.
It saddens me to know that Imus has a huge following, just like Howard Stern. Two shows that I do not enjoy and therefore do not listen to. I can almost imagine many of Imus' fans laughing at his comments regarding the Rutgers women. At the moment and believe me I know a few people who personally love both of these shows, did they think or say "Wait a minute, that's unacceptable." Believe me, Imus will not lose his following. But these women did lose their moment. For today's news is not how Rutgers won but about Imus apologizing on the Al Sharpton's Show.
The Rutgers Women Basketball Team's moment of glory has been diminished to shine the spotlight on a white man's foot-in-mouth apology.
Update: Imus has been suspended by CBS Radio and MSNBC but he has not been fired. In today's world of satellite radio, even if he was fired, I would not be surprised if he ends up there. Also, at 6pm (EST), I was able to go to imusblog.com and listen to the entire broadcast of the Al Sharpton's show featuring Imus. That account is now suspended.
Sunday, April 01, 2007
TWENTY TRUTHS TO REMEMBER
1. Faith is the ability to not panic.
2. If you worry, you didn't pray. If you pray, don't worry.
3. As a child of God, prayer is kind of like calling home every day.
4. Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape.
5. When we get tangled up in our problems, be still. God wants us to be still. So He can untangle the knot.
6. Do the math. Count your blessings.
7. God wants spiritual fruit, not religious nuts.
8. Dear God: I have a problem. It's me.
9. Silence is often misinterpreted, but never misquoted.
10. Laugh every day, it's like inner jogging.
11. The most important things in your home are the people.
12. Growing old is inevitable, growing up is optional.
13. There is no key to happiness. The door is always open.
14. A grudge is a heavy thing to carry.
15. He who dies with the most toys is still dead.
16. We do not remember days, but moments. Life moves too fast, so enjoy your precious moments.
17. Nothing is real to you until you experience it, otherwise it's just hearsay.
18. It's all right to sit on your pity pot every now and again. Just be sure to flush when you are done.
19. Surviving and living your life successfully requires courage. The goal and dreams you're seeking require courage and risk-taking. Learn from the turtle, it only makes progress when it sticks out its neck.
20. Be more concerned with your character than your reputation. Your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.
2. If you worry, you didn't pray. If you pray, don't worry.
3. As a child of God, prayer is kind of like calling home every day.
4. Blessed are the flexible, for they shall not be bent out of shape.
5. When we get tangled up in our problems, be still. God wants us to be still. So He can untangle the knot.
6. Do the math. Count your blessings.
7. God wants spiritual fruit, not religious nuts.
8. Dear God: I have a problem. It's me.
9. Silence is often misinterpreted, but never misquoted.
10. Laugh every day, it's like inner jogging.
11. The most important things in your home are the people.
12. Growing old is inevitable, growing up is optional.
13. There is no key to happiness. The door is always open.
14. A grudge is a heavy thing to carry.
15. He who dies with the most toys is still dead.
16. We do not remember days, but moments. Life moves too fast, so enjoy your precious moments.
17. Nothing is real to you until you experience it, otherwise it's just hearsay.
18. It's all right to sit on your pity pot every now and again. Just be sure to flush when you are done.
19. Surviving and living your life successfully requires courage. The goal and dreams you're seeking require courage and risk-taking. Learn from the turtle, it only makes progress when it sticks out its neck.
20. Be more concerned with your character than your reputation. Your character is what you really are, while your reputation is merely what others think you are.
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